Vatican Issues Crime Stats for First Time

The Vatican issued its first report on crime within the tiny city-state, saying Wednesday that the overwhelming majority of the 608 infractions committed last year were thefts and purse-snatchings.

More than 90 percent of those responsible were never caught, said Nicola Picardi, whose title of Promoter of Justice is the equivalent of a Vatican prosecutor.

Nearly 3 million people visited the Vatican Museums alone last year and millions more walk through St. Peter's Square or visit St. Peter's Basilica. Pickpockets are often in action during papal events that draw thousands of people.

No capital crimes were reported last year in the city-state, which counts 455 residents.

Most recently, the commander of the Swiss Guards was shot to death in his Vatican apartment in 1998. The Vatican said a disgruntled guardsman shot the commander and the commander's wife, then killed himself.

In 1981, a Turkish gunman seriously wounded Pope John Paul II as he was driven through St. Peter's Square in an open vehicle during a public audience.

Picardi's report gave no details on individual cases. In addition to the thefts, it listed embezzlement, fraud and insults to public officials. He said the Vatican was also involved in 397 civil cases.

Asked why the Vatican decided to issue the report, a spokesman, the Rev. Ciro Benedettini said, "We have nothing to hide."